Catholic Family Services of Durham Case Summary

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1 All over the world, women suffer the physical, emotional and psychological effects of violence. They also have to face the economic and social consequences that affect their lives, relationships, productivity and achievement in education and employment. Victims/survivors of violence against women need timely access to health care and support services that respond to short-term injuries, protect them from further violations and address longer-term needs. Yet many do not get the help they need, because there are too few support services in their country. UN, In-depth study on all forms of violence against women Our Story is Their Success When a woman is abused she suffers. You may think that it s just about her. But think again abuse hurts at any age, and everyone suffers. Children and youth exposed to violence are at risk of learning problems, emotional trauma, low self-esteem and fear. They suffer from behavioural issues; stress related pains and illnesses; anxiety, feelings of blame, guilt and shame; physical injuries and isolation. Moreover, the ripple effect can have a devastating effect on the community as a whole. Since 1981, Catholic Family Services of Durham (CFSD) has played a leadership role in the fight against abusive relationships and domestic violence by supporting the victims of abuse regardless of denomination- with counseling and programs to aid in the process of psychological, emotional and spiritual healing. We have a special commitment to those experiencing difficulties, to be in solidarity with them and to collaborate with them on their healing journey. 1 Catholic Family Services of Durham

2 Our Programs and Partnerships At CFSD we provide a mix of individual, couple, family and group counseling as well as family education programs; and almost half of our work is concentrated in the area of family violence. As proud members of the Violence Against Women Team and the Violence Prevention Coordinating Council (VPCC) in Durham, CFSD works collaboratively/cooperatively with numerous other social service agencies that respond to domestic violence including but not limited to: Children s Aid Society D.R.I.V.E.N. (Durham Region Intimate-Partner Violence Empowerment Network) Bethseda House Herizon House Denise House Y s Wish By the time John finished counseling, he was talking about his feelings, engaging in problemsolving discussions with his mother, was able to control his temper, and had successfully completed his schooling. Furthermore, CFSD consults with police, government and community agencies to ensure that clients receive immediate priority assistance regarding safety for themselves and their children, legal assistance, housing, counseling and other matters arising in the transition from violent environment to a life of safety. In 2010, CFSD became members of the Positive Discipline Coalition which seeks to educate parents and children of all ages about positive discipline strategies. We work with the 2 Catholic Family Services of Durham

3 Public School Board in delivering parenting workshops; and the Free To Be Me program to elementary school children to help them understand unique relational and bullying challenges. More recently, CFSD was selected by Health Canada to translate its current programming into French, and is now considered bilingual. It is one of only four agencies in the province to be recognized as having best practices for the development of French language services. CFSD is also involved in training tomorrow s leaders. Over the past 10 years we have offered clinical placement experience for Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work students from York University, University of Toronto, Wilfred Laurier University, John was an 8 year old boy who had witnessed his dad almost kill his mom when he was only four years old. He had also been the victim of his dad s physical and emotional rage. Ryerson University; and Human Service Worker, Child/ Youth Worker, Victimology and Human Resources placements for students from Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology. Our Record of Success At CFSD we are proud of our track record of prudence and financial responsibility. Since 2005: More than 90% of the revenue we receive each year is designated and used to fund direct services to women, children and families Catholic Family Services of Durham has reinvested more than $8.7 million in services to support families and prevent violence against women and children in the Durham Region In the past 5 years, more than 8000 people in need have been served from the Ajax, Port Perry and Oshawa locations of Catholic Family Services of Durham for less than $55 per client hour the most cost effective client based counseling service in Ontario 3 Catholic Family Services of Durham

4 Our Challenge The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has become one of the fastest growing urban areas in North America. As a result, there have been significant shifts in the demographics and socioeconomic structure of the communities that makeup the Region s population. With one of the highest rates of homicide among women in the Province of Ontario, Durham police deal with an average of 14 domestic disputes daily; and each day CFSD comes in direct contact with as many as 35 individuals seeking the support of our services. In fact, since the economic downturn in 2008, Durham has seen a 24% increase in domestic violence cases. This alarming statistic, coupled with the fact that population growth in Durham Region is expected to increase 36 percent by 2031, could pose a significant change to the needs of our community. CFSD is already overextended as a result of increased demand for services Sue was almost murdered by her partner. Her participation in individual counseling and group counseling for victims of domestic violence has assisted Sue in processing her trauma, thereby enabling her to rebuild her self-esteem, and ultimately her life. and no additional funding. Individuals in need of counseling - for childhood trauma, grief and mental health - face waiting periods of 4-6 weeks, as, for safety reasons, priority is given to victims of domestic violence. Our Goal At CFSD we are committed to supporting families in their journey from crisis to stability; to assisting them in their healing and to ensuring that children grow up to be all they can be in safe and nurturing homes. To meet the growing demand for our services, however, we must relocate to larger facilities, as we have outgrown our current space on Simcoe St. 4 Catholic Family Services of Durham

5 Our goal is to purchase a property that will not only suit our needs, but will allow us to collocate with partner organizations like Rose of Durham and D.R.I.V.E.N. Having two or more agencies collocated would help to decrease operating costs, increase funding to client services, and allow for a seamless process in service delivery. In accepting the challenge and responsibility of expanding our services to meet the urgent needs of our community, CFSD is awaiting approval for a $1 million grant from the Ministry of Community and Social Services. To realize our vision, however, CFSD has also had to embark on a $1 million Twist and Shout Capital Campaign for community support. Benefits to the Community Your generous support will not only directly impact the lives of the families we serve, it will have a positive ripple effect that will transcend generations and spread throughout Durham Region and beyond for years to come. Your investment will help to: Strengthen people s emotional and social wellbeing by empowering families, employees, parents, partners and children to be the best they can be. Build stable homes, connection and pride; and increase productivity and achievement in education and employment. Reduce poverty, crime, and the drain on our social assistance and healthcare programs. 5 Catholic Family Services of Durham

6 Budget Capital Costs: Building/Property $ 1, 600, 000 Renovations $ 500, 000 Furnishing/Equipment $ 10,000 Other $ 200,000 Total Costs $2, 310, 000 Revenue: Ministry of Community & Social Services Capital Grant Capital Campaign $1 million. $1 million Your Opportunity Clearly, CFSD provides an essential support service for abused women, their children and male partners; and serves as a catalyst for building stronger, healthier families and communities. The Twist and Shout Capital Campaign, in support of CFSD, is an important and exciting fundraising initiative that offers everyone an opportunity to renew their commitment to the health and well-being of our community. Please show you care and give as generously as you can Thank you! Incorporated in 1983, Catholic Family Services of Durham (CFSD) is a registered charity and receives most of its funding from the Ministry of Community and Social Services and the Ministry of Child and Youth Services. Additional financial resources are provided through Catholic Charities, United Way and donations. 6 Catholic Family Services of Durham